American abstract artist shows "Midnight Sun" at Facets of Fiber Exhibition

PJ Bergin, artist and fabricator for Felt In Hand, is among Colorado artists selected to be included in the Denver show “Facets of Fiber”.
“Facets of Fiber” is an exhibition of the Colorado Chapter of the Surface Design Association. It highlights work of 37 artists in their creative exploration of working with fiber and fabric.

The artwork is as varied as the artists who are participating and promises to be a colorful display of all things stitched, quilted, felted and painted.

The show runs January 20 to February 26, 2012 in Denver, Colorado. 

Join PJ at the Opening Reception
5 to 7PM, on January 27th.

John Jellico Gallery

Art Institute of Colorado
1200 Lincoln Street

Denver, CO 80203

Gallery Hours:
M-F: 7:30 AM to 10 PM

Sat-Sun: 8 AM to 5 PM

PJ Bergin Contemporary Mixed Media Fiber Artist

Felt Artist in her element in "The Year of the Dragon"

The Year of the Dragon

The primary holidays of the Western world are now behind us.  It was great to spend extra time with my partner, cook good meals and catch up with families and friends, near and far.  The gift of time is more precious than any other we exchanged and with it, taking the time to breathe deeply and reflect is what allows us to recharge our batteries and begin anew.

While the Chinese New Year is approaching, I thought it a good time to read up on the Chinese New Year of the Dragon.  I have always felt close to things from Asian cultures, especially after a memorable trip to China many years ago.  As it happens, 2012 is "my" year - no, you'll have to guess at my actual birth date , but see if these characteristics fit my personality:

Occupying the 5th position in the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon is the mightiest of the signs. Dragons symbolize such character traits as dominance and ambition. Dragons prefer to live by their own rules and if left on their own, are usually successful. They’re driven, unafraid of challenges, and willing to take risks. They’re passionate in all they do and they do things in grand fashion.

Despite a continued challenging economy and no end of political turmoil in our Congress for another 11 months, I feel confident that 2012 is going to be a good one for my art.  I look forward to more experimentation (felted rugs anyone?), new techniques and more opportunities.  Thanks to all who continue to support my felt art work and best wishes to you for the New Year!

PJ Bergin Contemporary Mixed Media Fiber Artist

Felt Artist PJ Bergin Shows Near Christmas Mountain, USA in Salida Colorado



Christmas Mountain USA -Salida, CO
Bryan Kelsen Photo



Abstract artist PJ Bergin joined a crowd of nearly a thousand Friday night, with the annual lighting of the world's largest Christmas tree, on the Arkansas River in downtown Salida, Colorado.  "From my studio, high atop the Hively Block (brick building pictured at left with awning), I could see the many floats lit up in the parade, as their drivers tossed candies to the crowd.  It's not as lengthy as our summer time parades on F Street, but everyone has a great time because they know that Santa Claus is about to throw the switch that lights up our 650' Tenderfoot Mountain, across the river.  And, if that were not enough, a big fireworks display from the mountain gets the people roaring again with approval."

So begins another holiday season in the little arts community of Salida, just 2-1/2 hours southwest of Denver.  PJ remembers many years back when manger scenes, complete with sheep, lambs and other animals lined the street on the day after Thanksgiving.  "It's just one of the reasons, we decided to move here and join the arts community".

The entire town turns out on the night after Thanksgiving to stroll the streets, enjoy hot cider and cocoa and cruise through Holiday Park (where people decorate and light trees in Riverside Park to honor their friends and families).  And of course, it's a great opportunity to mingle with townsfolk and country neighbors alike while stopping in at all the local galleries and shops to see what's in store for the holidays.



"Keeper of the Message" ©2011 PJ Bergin



A Forest of Glow Tubes™

Just a few yards down F Street from my studio a forest of Glow Tube™  structure and Glow Box™  wall-mounted art can be found at Eliza's Bed.  With their white LED lights glowing from inside of each piece, this work is not only perfect for the season, but a great way to help warm up your home and help get you through the long dark days of winter!

New abstract art...Just in time for the holidays!  Shake off the doldrums of a tough year, treat yourself AND and support the arts.  Special holiday pricing makes it easier and you'll help jump start the economy.

A large collection of my Glow Box™ and Glow Tube™ felted work is now on display and sale through year end at Eliza's Bed 108 F Street in Salida, CO. 

PJ Bergin Contemporary Mixed Media Fiber Artist

"Foxfire Series" of Original Abstract Art by PJ Bergin Opens at Artwork Network

PJ at Opening Night  -  Artwork Network Gallery

First Friday Art patrons flocked to the Santa Fe Arts District at this increasingly popular event.  Original abstract art included PJ's "Foxfire Series" of Glow Box™ and Glow Tubes™, shown here.

"It was great to see all the young people - art students, art lovers and people just curious about what is being created these days."  I had a lot of interest in and questions about my use of LED lighting in these pieces, says PJ.  And when the house lights were dimmed and the DJ's took over the small stage in front of my large Glow Box™ pieces, it really looked great!"

PJ (left) explaining her technique

The show continues through October 29th, 2011 and is open to visitors M-F 10-5 and SAT 12-4.

Artwork Network is located at 878 Santa Fe Drive and can be reached at 303-388-7420.







PJ Bergin Contemporary Mixed Media Fiber Artist

Colorist Creates Original Abstract Art for "Foxfire Series" Show

PJ  working with carded , hand-dyed wool

"More and more, I think of myself as a 'colorist', says PJ Bergin.

Traditionally, this means a painter who is skilled in achieving special effects with color.  It also has special meaning for artists who add color to black and white line art in the world of comic strips."

Creating the Canvas

For PJ Bergin, both definitions apply - only her medium is wool.  Starting with plain white wool roving, she precisely weighs out and mixes the dyes that create vibrant hues already visualized in her experienced eyes.  After  the dyes set and the bundles dry, the labor intensive technique of "carding" transforms the wool into fluffy, almost transparent strands. 

"The next step is for me to 'create the canvas' - arranging the colored wool onto a neutral background.  Placing colors in certain positions and shapes and then layering more wool on top creates the depth that I am looking for.  It also brings new colors in to the mix of the finished piece."

It's only then that the "felting" process begins, when the artist uses the inherent properties of the natural fibers, combined with warm water and compression to create a whole new structure, neither woven nor knit, but strong and durable all the same.  Currently, finished pieces are 48" x 54" and placed over a wooden frame to create a "Glow Box™, complete with interior, LED lighting.

"My latest works comprise the 'Foxfire Series' - 5 Glow Box™,  and 7 Glow Tube™,  (free-standing cylindrical works).  Foxfire, also sometimes referred to as "fairy fire", is the bioluminescence created by some species of fungi present in decaying wood. Although the purpose is unknown, it is widely believed that the light is meant to attract insects to spread its spores or act as a warning to hungry animals, similar to the bright colors exhibited by some species of animals.  Although generally very dim, in some cases it can be bright enough to read by.

"Layering of the colored wool along with the 'lit from within' feature of the LED's allows for depth and changes of light as the finished piece is viewed from different angles.  I invite you to come and see how these new techniques, coupled with the traditions of coloring and felt making, create something entirely new and enticing".

PJ's show, "The Foxfire Series" opens at Artwork Network on First Friday in Denver.

Artwork Network is located at 878 Santa Fe Drive and can be reached at 303-388-7420.

Meet PJ on October 7th from 5pm-8pm.  The show continues through October 29th, 2011
and is open to visitors M-F 10-5 and SAT 12-4.

PJ Bergin Contemporary Mixed Media Fiber Artist

Original Abstract Fiber Art Draws 200 People to Felt in Hand Studio



Stage is set for Felt in Hand Studio Tour


Biennial Salida Studio Tour is once again history.  PJ's Felt in Hand Studio was the first stop (of 22) on the tour and a steady stream of art patrons (over 200!) came to enjoy PJ's latest art. 

In addition to seeing PJ's new collection of Glow Box™ and Glow Tube™ LED-lit pieces, visitors saw layered felt art tapestry and other fiber art work.  Out of state, Front Range visitors and locals alike, all had a good time.

People of all ages enjoyed great refreshments, a tour of the working studio, and a chance to ask many questions about how PJ creates felt from wool roving, then turns it into exciting wall art and free-standing pieces, many of which are now lit from within by glowing LED lights.

The next Salida Studio Tour may be 2 years away, but visitors are welcome for a private tour, by appointment, at any time.

Just contact us by phone at 719-539-6382 or by email to: pj@feltinhand.com.  See you soon!

PJ Bergin Contemporary Mixed Media Fiber Artist

Original Abstract Art Featured on 2011 Salida Studio Tour, Sept. 9-10

The eagerly awaited Salida Studio Tour is upon us!  I've been working all summer on a series of original, abstract art "Glow Structures", made from studio-dyed felt and silk.  Lit from within, a myriad of LED's project pinpoints of lights through the silk and cast a warm glow behind the colored felt.

Pictured above, my Glow Box™ "Rings and Circles" is one of four that you can see hung up in my studio.  These wood-framed works stand 4" off the wall, making a dramatic statement. 

Perfect for any living room, master suite, media room or conference area, these works blend traditional fiber art with today's technology.

Glow Tube #6
Wool Roving, Silk, LED-lit
©2011 PJ Bergin - Felt In Hand

Also on the tour will be an entire "forest" of Glow Tubes™ .  These free-standing creations use similar materials as the Glow Box™ series and are also LED-lit from within.  At nearly 5 feet tall, these floor sculptures are great ways for overcoming dark corners, especially when clustered like trees in a grove.

Presented by Salida ArtWorks, the Salida Studio Tour opens at 11AM on Friday Sept. 9 and runs until 7pm.  Saturday the 10th, tour hours are 10-6.  With nearly 6 studios within easy walking distance of Salida's Historic Downtown, you can park in the public lot behind the Safeway store at 2nd and G Streets and not have to move your car.

My studio (Felt in Hand) is marked as #1 on the tour map, in the pink oval section that highlights downtown.  Located above the Book Haven in the historic Hively Block, I am at 126-1/2 F Street.  Look for the colorful balloons tied to the wrought iron railing and tall iron gate that adjoins the alley and Downtown Bakery.  Refreshments will be served and all art is for sale.

Since nearly 200 visitors came through my studio on the first tour, you may wish to get an early start!  This year there are even more studios (22) to visit, ranging from traditional fine art painting to jewelry, fiber, mixed media and pottery.  Glassblowing and elegant metalwork and industrial, "Space-age", found-object pieces will also be shown.

Every one of the artists is looking forward to meeting with visitors and explaining their techniques and sources of ideas.  It's fun and free!  Come out and support the art and artists of Salida's creative community. If you want to plan your route in advance, call me at 719-539-6382 for a hard copy of the tour map.  Copies are also available now at downtown galleries, the Chamber of Commerce and the Salida Regional Library.

See you soon! 

PJ Bergin Contemporary Mixed Media Fiber Artist